3% of men suffer from male infertility, and yet the subject is shrouded in mystery and misinformation. This Live Q&A aims to bust myths and spotlight facts pertaining to infertility in men.
Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low sperm count, trauma or injury, infections and genetic factors are some potential causes.
Excessive smoking definitely affects fertility. Likewise, excessive drinking can lead to premature ejaculation and thus, infertility.
Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and low sperm count are some manifestations of male infertility.
A lab investigation of the semen sample is the only way to diagnose infertility.
There are no specific foods that can boost sperm quality or count. Exercise will help if you are obese or diabetic.
Genetics can be significant in influencing genetic aberrations or anomalies. These can trigger infertility.
Quitting - or at least reducing - one's consumption of alcohol and cigarettes is vital. Also, try staying away from heated environments. There are no specific food recommendations. Exercise will help if you are obese or diabetic.
Yes. A baseline test for both partners is recommended on the first visit.
Anywhere over 20 million sperm per millilitre is considered healthy.
Smoking causes vasoconstriction, which in turn, affects blood supply to the penis.
Some common factors include stress, smoking, drinking, obesity, marital issues, difficulty in sexual performance and exposure to drugs.
This condition is known as cryptorchidism, and is often present since childhood. If the testicles remain in the abdomen, they cannot produce sperm and need to be brought down via corrective surgery.
The drugs used in chemotherapy are toxic to sperm. In a man who has undergone chemotherapy, a testicular biopsy is the only way to gauge sperm quality and
volume. Sperm donation can be considered as an option if sperm reserves have been compromised.
A decline in fertility may be caused by diseases such as diabetes, which hamper sexual performance.
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A case of nonexistent sperm is termed as azoospermia. It is a common issue that can be resolved. Your urologist may conduct an evaluation to check for problems in the genitalia, followed by an ultrasound. You may also be advised genetic testing.
A semen analysis is usually the first step in diagnosing male infertility.
Any vibrations close to the testicles can impact fertility. It's a good idea to turn off your phone's vibration settings.
Extreme heat does hinder sperm production, and damages existing sperm. It's wise to avoid heat exposure.
If the cause of infertility is male-partner-driven, treatment will certainly help achieve pregnancy sooner.
There are various treatments for low sperm count. Your doctor will suggest an approach after analysing your medical history and profile.
This depends on the cause of infertility. Some fertility-impeding factors like infections can be treated, while others - like genetic influences - cannot be.
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A couple that has been trying for a year, but has been unable to conceive, should seek guidance from a fertility specialist.
No. There are abnormal sperm cells in any semen sample, but in a healthy male, this percentage is usually lower.
Yes. This is why it should be avoided - or at least reduced in consumption.
3% of men seek help for infertility.
Yes. Persistent pressure on the testicles can affect sperm production.
Factors like stress, smoking, drinking, obesity, marital issues, sexual dysfunction, exposure to drugs and heated environments can increase the risk of male infertility, so
it's wise to seek help for such situations.
If no issues are found in you or your partner, you may be evaluated for undetected antibodies.
A varicocele is the dilation of the veins inside the testicles. This causes elevated temperatures and in turn, affects sperm count.
Erectile dysfunction can take a psychological toll on a man, potentially causing tension in a marriage. It can also be a cause of infertility.
There is no proven treatment to improve sperm motility.
Erectile dysfunction hinders erections. Alternatively, issues with the muscles in the penis may also play a role. Your situation may be better understood by a urologist.
Thyroid disorder affects the levels of other hormones, whereas that's not the case with you. In your case, assisted reproductive technology is recommended.
If you haven't had luck so far, you may want to consider assisted reproductive technology.
Semen is jelly-like in consistency, so you likely have nothing to worry about. Consult a doctor to rule out any infections.
There are drugs that claim this is possible but there's no scientific evidence.
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